The dogfight of bids and counter-bids saw an imperial bottle of 2009 Penfolds Bin 95 Grange Shiraz sell for $53,590. The staggering figure equates to $6698 per 750mls, a stretch from the average auction price of the bottle which sits at $582.

Andrew Caillard MW, Veteran auctioneer, said the strength of bidding was directly proportionate to an assertive, well planned and executed auction program.

“Rarely in my career as an auctioneer have I encountered such an incredible volume of support, both in prices and generosity of spirit,” Caillard said.

James March, Barossa Grape and Wine Association (BGWA) chief executive, said the results were an encouraging indicator for the Barossa wine community.

“The atmosphere was electric as the spirited bidding received rounds of spontaneous applause as the hammer fell on each lot,” March said. “You couldn’t help but feel there was a real sense of confidence in the pedigree of the lots being presented and this flowed through to the prices achieved, which exceeded everyone’s expectations.”

With a high percentage of proceeds being directed towards nominated charities, March said the event has cemented BGWA’s commitment to the Barossa Vintage Festival.

“The region’s spirit of generosity has left a strong foundation to build on and I felt incredibly proud and privileged to have been a part of another winning chapter in the Barossa story,” he said.